Collapsible shipping cooler

ABSTRACT

Systems and methods for a collapsible shipping cooler are described herein. The shipping cooler can be changeable between an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration. The shipping cooler can comprise a base, a collapsible insulation assembly positioned partially within the base, a collapsible body coupled to the base, at least one divider configured to couple to the collapsible body, and a lid coupled to the collapsible body opposite the base. The collapsible insulation assembly can comprise a set of insulation walls that are at least partially movable and an inner chamber within the set of insulated walls. The collapsible body can be positioned around a portion of the collapsible insulation assembly when in the expanded configuration. The at least one divider can removably couple to one or more insulated walls of the set of insulated walls of the collapsible insulation assembly when the shipping cooler is in the expanded configuration.

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.62/564,904, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates generally to reusable and collapsible shippingcoolers.

BACKGROUND

Many customers of retail or grocery stores now desire the convenience ofhaving their orders delivered to their homes and/or picking up theiralready-collected orders at a designated area of the store or anotherdesignated location. These orders are often made online by the customersusing a website or mobile application for the store, and can includefrozen and/or refrigerated items. Conventional shipping boxes andconventional coolers, however, can be inefficient in terms of storagespace requirements, reusability, and ability to keep products in apreferred temperature range.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To facilitate further description of the embodiments, the followingdrawings are provided in which:

FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of a cooler apparatus in anexpanded configuration, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 1B illustrates a perspective view of the cooler apparatus of FIG.1A collapsing from the expanded configuration to a collapsedconfiguration, or vice versa, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 1C illustrates a perspective view of the cooler apparatus of FIG.1A in the collapsed configuration, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2A illustrates a front top view of the cooler apparatus of FIG. 1Ain the expanded configuration with the lid open and a seal covering theinner chamber, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2B illustrates a front top view of the cooler apparatus of FIG. 1Ain the expanded configuration with the lid open and without the sealcovering the inner chamber, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2C illustrates a front top view of the cooler apparatus of FIG. 1Ain the expanded configuration with the lid open and a divider beingremoved from the inner chamber, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2D illustrates a front top view of the cooler apparatus of FIG. 1Ain the expanded configuration with the lid open and an insulated wall ofa collapsible insulation assembly being folded inward, according to anembodiment;

FIG. 3A illustrates a side view of the cooler apparatus of FIG. 1A inthe expanded configuration, according to an embodiments;

FIG. 3B illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the cooler apparatusof FIG. 3A in the expanded configuration, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 3C illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the cooler apparatusof FIG. 3A in the collapsed configuration, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view of a collapsible insulationassembly with a partial cutout view of insulated walls, according to anembodiment;

FIG. 4B illustrates a perspective view of the collapsible insulationassembly of FIG. 4A with a first insulated wall folded to a collapsedconfiguration, a second insulated wall moving from an expandedconfiguration to the collapsed configuration, and a third insulated walland a fourth insulated wall in the expanded configuration, according toan embodiment;

FIG. 4C illustrates a perspective view of the collapsible insulationassembly of FIG. 4A with four insulated walls folded to the collapsedconfiguration, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of the divider of FIG. 2C,according to an embodiment;

FIGS. 5B and 5C illustrate cross-sectional views of the divider of FIG.2C being coupled to an insulated wall, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 6 illustrates an exploded view of the cooler apparatus of FIG. 1A,according to an embodiment;

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a top view of the cooler apparatus of FIG. 1Ain the collapsed configuration, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 8A illustrates a perspective view of the collapsible insulationassembly of FIG. 4A being removed from a base and a collapsible body ofthe cooler apparatus of FIG. 1A, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 8B illustrates a perspective view of a set of collapsibleinsulation assemblies being washed in a washer; and

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a method for providing a cooler apparatus,according to an embodiment; and

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a method for assembling a cooler apparatus.

For simplicity and clarity of illustration, the drawing figuresillustrate the general manner of construction, and descriptions anddetails of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoidunnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure. Additionally, elementsin the drawing figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example,the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggeratedrelative to other elements to help improve understanding of embodimentsof the present disclosure. The same reference numerals in differentfigures denote the same elements.

The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” and the like in thedescription and in the claims, if any, are used for distinguishingbetween similar elements and not necessarily for describing a particularsequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the termsso used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such thatthe embodiments described herein are, for example, capable of operationin sequences other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein.Furthermore, the terms “include,” and “have,” and any variationsthereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that aprocess, method, system, article, device, or apparatus that comprises alist of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements, but mayinclude other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process,method, system, article, device, or apparatus.

The terms “left,” “right,” “front,” “back,” “top,” “bottom,” “over,”“under,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, areused for descriptive purposes and not necessarily for describingpermanent relative positions. It is to be understood that the terms soused are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that theembodiments of the apparatus, methods, and/or articles of manufacturedescribed herein are, for example, capable of operation in otherorientations than those illustrated or otherwise described herein.

The terms “couple,” “coupled,” “couples,” “coupling,” and the likeshould be broadly understood and refer to connecting two or moreelements mechanically and/or otherwise. Two or more electrical elementsmay be electrically coupled together, but not be mechanically orotherwise coupled together. Coupling may be for any length of time,e.g., permanent or semi-permanent or only for an instant. “Electricalcoupling” and the like should be broadly understood and includeelectrical coupling of all types. The absence of the word “removably,”“removable,” and the like near the word “coupled,” and the like does notmean that the coupling, etc. in question is or is not removable.

As defined herein, two or more elements are “integral” if they arecomprised of the same piece of material. As defined herein, two or moreelements are “non-integral” if each is comprised of a different piece ofmaterial.

As defined herein, “real-time” can, in some embodiments, be defined withrespect to operations carried out as soon as practically possible uponoccurrence of a triggering event. A triggering event can include receiptof data necessary to execute a task or to otherwise process information.Because of delays inherent in transmission and/or in computing speeds,the term “real time” encompasses operations that occur in “near” realtime or somewhat delayed from a triggering event. In a number ofembodiments, “real time” can mean real time less a time delay forprocessing (e.g., determining) and/or transmitting data. The particulartime delay can vary depending on the type and/or amount of the data, theprocessing speeds of the hardware, the transmission capability of thecommunication hardware, the transmission distance, etc. However, in manyembodiments, the time delay can be less than approximately one second,two seconds, five seconds, or ten seconds.

As defined herein, “approximately” can, in some embodiments, mean withinplus or minus ten percent of the stated value. In other embodiments,“approximately” can mean within plus or minus five percent of the statedvalue. In further embodiments, “approximately” can mean within plus orminus three percent of the stated value. In yet other embodiments,“approximately” can mean within plus or minus one percent of the statedvalue.

DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES OF EMBODIMENTS

A number of embodiments can include a cooler apparatus. The coolerapparatus can comprise a base. The cooler apparatus can further comprisea collapsible insulation assembly. The collapsible insulation assemblycan comprise (1) a first insulation portion positioned within the basewhen the cooler apparatus is in an expanded configuration and acollapsed configuration, (2) a second insulation portion proximate thefirst insulation portion, (3) a set of insulated walls that are at leastpartially movable, and (4) an inner chamber within the set of insulatedwalls. The cooler apparatus can further comprise a collapsible bodycoupled to the base and configured to be positioned around the secondinsulation portion of the collapsible insulation assembly when thecooler apparatus is in the expanded configuration. The cooler apparatuscan further comprise at least one divider configured to removably coupleto one or more insulated walls of the set of insulated walls of thecollapsible insulation assembly when the cooler apparatus is in theexpanded configuration. The at least one divider can divide the innerchamber of the collapsible insulation assembly into at least a firstinner chamber and a second inner chamber when removably coupled to theone or more insulated walls of the set of insulated walls when thecooler apparatus is in the expanded configuration. The cooler apparatuscan further comprise a lid coupled to the collapsible body opposite thebase when the cooler apparatus is in the expanded configuration and thecollapsed configuration.

Various embodiments include a method. The method can include providing abase. The method also can include providing a collapsible insulationassembly. The collapsible insulation assembly can comprise (1) a firstinsulation portion positioned within the base when the cooler apparatusis in an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration, (2) asecond insulation portion proximate the first insulation portion, (3) aset of insulated walls that are at least partially movable, and (4) aninner chamber within the set of insulated walls. The method also caninclude providing a collapsible body covering configured to couple tothe base and configured to be positioned around a second insulationportion of the collapsible insulation assembly when the cooler apparatusis in the expanded configuration. The method also can include coupling acollapsible body frame to the collapsible body covering. The method alsocan include providing at least one divider configured to removablycouple to one or more insulated walls of the set of insulated walls ofthe collapsible insulation assembly when the cooler apparatus is in theexpanded configuration. The at least one divider can divide the innerchamber of the collapsible insulation assembly into at least a firstinner chamber and a second inner chamber when removably coupled to theone or more insulated walls of the set of insulated walls when thecooler apparatus is in the expanded configuration. The method also caninclude providing a lid configured to couple to the collapsible bodyframe opposite the base when the cooler apparatus is in both theexpanded configuration and the collapsed configuration.

Various embodiments include a method of assembling a cooler apparatus.The method can include inserting a first insulation portion of acollapsible insulation assembly into a base. The first insulationportion can be positioned within the base when the cooler apparatus isin an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration. Thecollapsible insulation assembly can comprise a second insulation portionproximate the first insulation portion, a set of insulated walls thatare at least partially movable, and an inner chamber within the set ofinsulate walls. The method also can include coupling a collapsible bodytoward the base. The collapsible body can be configured to be positionedaround a second insulation portion of the collapsible insulationassembly when the cooler apparatus is in the expanded configuration. Themethod also can include removably coupling at least one divider to oneor more insulated walls of the set of insulated walls of the collapsibleinsulation assembly when the cooler apparatus is in the expandedconfiguration. The at least one divider can divide the inner chamber ofthe collapsible insulation assembly into at least a first inner chamberand a second inner chamber when removably coupled to the one or moreinsulated walls of the set of insulated walls when the cooler apparatusis in the expanded configuration. The method also can include coupling alid to the collapsible body opposite the base.

Many customers of retail or grocery stores now desire the convenience ofhaving their orders delivered to their homes and/or picking up theiralready-collected orders at a designated area of the store or anotherdesignated location. These orders are often made online by the customersusing a website or mobile application for the store and can includefrozen and/or refrigerated items. Conventional shipping boxes andconventional coolers, however, can be inefficient in terms of storagespace requirements, reusability, and ability to keep products in apreferred temperature range.

Described herein are various embodiments of a cooler apparatusconfigured to be a reusable and collapsible shipping cooler. One or moreembodiments of the reusable and collapsible shipping cooler describedherein can be used in shipment of online orders comprising items that donot need to be cooled, along with frozen and/or chilled items, from oneor more fulfillment centers or distribution centers to a customer.Moreover, one or more embodiments of the reusable and collapsibleshipping cooler described herein also can be used for pickup and/ordelivery of an online order from a brick and mortar store, such as butnot limited to a grocery store.

As shall be shown in greater detail in the figures and described ingreater detail in the descriptions provided herein, an online ordercomprising frozen and/or chilled items can be placed in one or moreinner chambers of a cooler apparatus in an expanded configuration. Oncethe online order is placed in the cooler apparatus, the cooler apparatuscan be shipped to the customer, delivered to the customer, and/orarranged for pickup by the customer. As shall be described in greaterdetail below, one or more embodiments of the cooler apparatus areconfigured to efficiently and effectively keep frozen items frozen andchilled items chilled. After the customer has removed the items of theonline order from the cooler apparatus, the customer can quickly andeasily collapse the cooler apparatus to a collapsed configuration. Inthe collapsed configuration, the cooler apparatus requires less space,and is thus more efficient for shipping and handling. With the coolerapparatus in the collapsed configuration, the customer can return thecooler apparatus to the retailer for future use by leaving the coolerapparatus at the door of the customer's home awaiting pickup fordelivery back to the retailer, dropping the cooler apparatus off at adesignated third-party location such as a shipping store, and/ordropping the cooler apparatus off at a brick and mortar store of theretailer.

Turning to the drawings, FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate an exemplary embodimentof a cooler apparatus 100 in various configurations. As noted above, inmany embodiments, cooler apparatus 100 can comprise a collapsibleshipping cooler that is movable between an expanded configuration and acollapsed configuration. Referring more specifically to FIGS. 1A-1C,FIG. 1A illustrates cooler apparatus 100 in the expanded configuration,FIG. 1C illustrates cooler apparatus 100 in the collapsed configuration,and FIG. 1B illustrates cooler apparatus 100 as it is being collapsedfrom the expanded configuration shown in FIG. 1A to the collapsedconfiguration in FIG. 1C, or vice versa.

As illustrated in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, in manyembodiments, cooler apparatus 100 can comprise a base 110, a collapsiblebody 120 coupled to base 110, and a lid 140 coupled to collapsible body120 opposite base 110. In some embodiments, collapsible body 120 can beremovably or detachably coupled to base 110, and lid 140 can beremovably or detachably coupled to collapsible body 120. Moreparticularly, in some embodiments, collapsible body 120 can comprise aframe 126, and frame 126 can be coupled to lid 140. Although not shownin FIG. 1A, in some embodiments, collapsible body 120 can furthercomprise an additional frame coupling collapsible body 120 to base 110.In some embodiments, frame 126 can be substantially rigid to support theweight of lid 140 regardless of whether cooler apparatus 100 is in theexpanded or collapsed configuration and to support and keep flat aremovable seal 202 (FIG. 2A).

In many embodiments of cooler apparatus 100, collapsible body 120 cancomprise an outer fabric layer with an inner polycarbonate material.Furthermore, in many embodiments, collapsible body 120 can comprise aset of body walls. In some embodiments, the set of body walls cancomprise, but is not limited to four body walls. In other embodiments,the set of body walls can comprise three body walls, four body walls,five body walls, six body walls, and so on. In some more particularembodiments, the set of body walls can comprise two first opposing bodywalls 130 and two second opposing body walls 135. Each body wall of theset of body walls can extend from a first end 121 of collapsible body120 to a second end 122 of collapsible body 120.

In many embodiments of cooler apparatus 100, each first opposing bodywall 130 can comprise a first body portion 131 and a second body portion132. A central hinge 124 can be positioned between first body portion131 and second body portion 132 of each first opposing body wall 130. Asillustrated in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1A, first body portion131 and second body portion 132 of each first opposing body wall 130 aresubstantially planar with one another when cooler apparatus 100 is inthe expanded configuration. Central hinge 124 allows each first opposingbody wall 130 to collapse or fold onto itself. For example, when coolerapparatus 100 is transitioned from the expanded configuration to thecollapsed configuration, as illustrated in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1B, outer surfaces of first body portion 131 and second bodyportion 132 of first opposing body wall 130 are drawn closer to oneanother as cooler apparatus 100 is transitioned from the expandedconfiguration to the collapsed configuration. When cooler apparatus 100is in the collapsed configuration, as shown in the exemplary embodimentof FIG. 1C, the outer surface of first body portion 131 and the outersurface second body portion 132 of first opposing body wall 130interface one another.

In many embodiments of cooler apparatus 100, each second opposing bodywall 135 can comprise a first body portion 136 and a second body portion137. Central hinge 124 can be positioned between first body portion 136and second body portion 137 of each second opposing body wall 135.Moreover, first body portion 136 and second body portion 137 of eachsecond opposing body wall 135 can comprise one or more angled hinges134. For example, each angled hinge 134 of first body portion 136 canextend from first body end 121 to central hinge 124, and each angledhinge 134 of first body portion 136 is not parallel to central hinge 124when cooler apparatus 100 is in the expanded configuration. In thenon-limiting embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, first body portion 136comprises two angled hinges 134. In many embodiments, angle hinges 134can be positioned between panels of first body portion 136. For example,first body portion 136 can comprise a central panel 138 positionedbetween two side panels 139, with a different one of angled hinges 134separating each of side panels 139 from central panel 138. Central panel138 can, in some embodiments, extend from first body end 121 to centralhinge 124. Angled hinges 134 of first body portion 136 allow each firstopposing body wall 130 to collapse or fold onto itself. For example,when cooler apparatus 100 is transitioned from the expandedconfiguration to the collapsed configuration, as illustrated in theexemplary embodiment of FIG. 1B, outer surfaces of side panels 139 offirst body portion 136 are drawn closer to central panel 138 of firstbody portion 136. When cooler apparatus 100 is in the collapsedconfiguration, as shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1C, outersurfaces of side panels 139 of first body portion 136 interface centralpanel 138 of first body portion 136.

Similarly, each angled hinge 134 of second body portion 137 can extendfrom first body end 122 to central hinge 124, and each angled hinge 134of second body portion 137 is not parallel to central hinge 124 whencooler apparatus 100 is in the expanded configuration. In thenon-limiting embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, second body portion 137comprises two angled hinges 134. In many embodiments, angled hinges 134can be positioned between panels of second body portion 137. Forexample, second body portion 137 can comprise a central panel 148positioned between two side panels 149, with a different one of angledhinges 134 separating each of side panels 149 from central panel 148.Central panel 148 can, in some embodiments, extend from second body end122 to central hinge 124. Angled hinges 134 of second body portion 135allow each second opposing body wall 135 to collapse or fold ontoitself. For example, when cooler apparatus 100 is transitioned from theexpanded configuration to the collapsed configuration, as illustrated inthe exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1B, outer surfaces of side panels 149of second body portion 135 are drawn closer to central panel 148 ofsecond body portion 135. When cooler apparatus 100 is in the collapsedconfiguration, as shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1C, outersurfaces of side panels 149 of second body portion 135 interface centralpanel 148 of second body portion 135.

While the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1A comprises two angledhinges on each of first body portion 136 and second body portion 137,other embodiments are contemplated with one angled hinge or three ormore angled hinges on each of first body portion 136 and second bodyportion 137. In many embodiments, central hinge 124 and each angledhinge 134 can comprise any hinge configured to two adjacent portions orpanels, such as but not limited to a fabric hinge. In some embodiments,central hinge 124 and each angled hinge 128 can comprise the outerfabric or material covering the set of body walls. In a particularembodiment, any of the hinges on cooler apparatus 100 can comprise athermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) soft hinge external to cooler apparatus100 and removably couple to cooler apparatus 100, for example, withscrews.

Many embodiments of collapsible body 120 can comprise at least onehandle 164. Handle 164 can be coupled to any portion of any body wall ofthe set of body walls. In FIG. 1A, handle 164 is coupled to first bodyportion 131 of first opposing body wall 130. In many embodiments,collapsible body 120 can comprise multiple handles such as handle 164.For example, in some embodiments (not shown in FIG. 1A), handle 164 canbe coupled to second body portion 132 of first opposing body wall 130,first body portion 136 of second opposing body wall 135, and/or secondbody portion 137 of second opposing body wall 135.

In many embodiments of cooler apparatus 100, lid 140 can be coupled tocollapsible body 120. In certain embodiments, lid 140 can be hingedly orpivotally coupled to collapsible body 120. More particularly, in someembodiments, lid 140 can be hingedly coupled to frame 126 of collapsiblebody 120. Lid 140 can be hingedly coupled to collapsible body 120 withany hinge described herein or otherwise known in the art. In otherembodiments, lid 140 can be removably or detachably coupled tocollapsible body 120. For example, in some embodiments, a portion ofcollapsible body 120 can slide into a recess of lid 140 to removablycouple lid 140 to collapsible body 120. More particularly, in someembodiments, a portion of frame 126 of collapsible body 120 can slideinto a recess at an underside or bottom of lid 140 to removably couplelid 140 to collapsible body 120.

In many embodiments of cooler apparatus 100, lid 140 can comprise areplaceable covering 142 or “skin” on an outer surface of lid 140. Insome embodiments, replaceable covering 142 can comprise a replaceablefabric. Replaceable covering 142 for lid 140 allows for extended use ofa lid chassis 244 (FIG. 2A). In many embodiments, lid 140 can furthercomprise label 150 that is pivotally, slidably, or otherwise moveablycoupled to lid 140 (as described in greater detail in relation to FIGS.7A and 7B).

Many embodiments of lid 140 can further comprise a top handle 162. Tophandle 162 can be coupled to lid 140 such that (1) when not in use, tophandle 162 is flush against lid 140 to minimize catch points, and (2)when in use and pulled away from lid 140, there is sufficient room for auser to put his/her hand underneath a portion of top handle 162. Forexample, top handle 162 can be coupled to lid 140 at two opposing endsof top handle 162. Each opposing end of top handle 162 can be movablycoupled to lid 140 to allow top handle 162 to, while coupled to lid 140,lay flush against lid 140 and also be pulled away from lid 140.

In many embodiments of cooler apparatus 100, lid 140 can comprise a lidcoupling 166. Lid coupling 166 can comprise any coupling configured tocouple to base coupling 168. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG.1A, lid coupling 166 comprises a buckle hook configured to couple to abuckle catch of base coupling 168 when cooler apparatus 100 is in thecollapsed configuration such that top handle 162 can be used to carrycooler apparatus 100 in the collapsed configuration without lid 140becoming separated from the rest of cooler apparatus 100. Someembodiments of cooler apparatus 100 can comprise a second base couplingat the top of first body portion 131 so that lid coupling 166 can couplethe buckle catch of the second base coupling when cooler apparatus 100is in the expanded configuration such that top handle 162 can be used tosuch that top handle 162 can be used to carry cooler apparatus 100 inthe expanded configuration without lid 140 becoming separated from therest of cooler apparatus 100. In the same or different embodiments, ofcooler apparatus 100 can comprise multiple ones of each of lid coupling166, base coupling 168, and second base coupling. Other embodiments ofcooler apparatus 100 can comprise other couplings, such as but notlimited to straps, belts, hook and loop fastening material, and so on.In some embodiments, cooler apparatus 100 can comprise a lid releasebutton 170 configured to release or unlock the lid when pressed.

In many embodiments of cooler apparatus 100, base 110 can comprise basecoupling 168. Base coupling 168 can comprise any coupling configured tocouple to lid coupling 166. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG.1A, base coupling 168 comprises a buckle catch configured to couple to abuckle hook of lid 140 when cooler apparatus 100 is in the collapsedconfiguration. As noted above, other embodiments of cooler apparatus 100can comprise other couplings, such as but not limited to straps, belts,hook and loop fastening material, and so on.

In many embodiments of cooler apparatus 100, base 110 can comprise areplaceable covering 112 or “skin” on an outer surface of base 110. Insome embodiments, replaceable covering 112 can comprise a fabricreplaceable covering 112. Replaceable covering 112 for base 110 allowsfor extended use of base chassis 306 (FIG. 3B).

Although not shown in FIG. 1A, many embodiments of base 110 can furthercomprise a base handle. The base handle can be coupled to base 110 suchthat (1) when not in use, the base handle is flush against base 110 tominimize catch points, and (2) when in use and pulled away from base110, there is sufficient room for a user to put his/her hand underneatha portion of the base handle. For example, the base handle can becoupled to base 110 at two opposing ends of the base handle. Eachopposing end of the base handle can be movably coupled to lid 140 toallow the base handle to, while coupled to base 110, lay flush againstbase 110 and also be pulled away from base 110.

Turning to FIG. 1B, which illustrates an exemplary embodiment coolerapparatus 100 as cooler apparatus 100 is transitioned from the expandedconfiguration shown in FIG. 1A to the collapsed configuration shown inFIG. 1C, or vice versa. In many embodiments, cooler apparatus 100 can bechangeable from the expanded configuration to the collapsedconfiguration by pushing the two second opposing body walls 135 ofcollapsible body 120 inward. As first body portion 131 and second bodyportion 132 of first body walls 130 pivot closer to one another aboutcentral hinge 124, as side panels 139 pivot closer to central panel 138about angled hinges 134, and as side panels 149 pivot closer to centralpanel 148 about angled hinges 134, lid 140 moves closer to base 110.

Turning to the next figure, FIG. 1C illustrates an exemplary embodimentof cooler apparatus 100 in the collapsed configuration. In someembodiments, frame 126 separates lid 140 from base 110 when coolerapparatus 100 is in the collapsed configuration. In the collapsedconfiguration, lid coupling 166 can removably couple to base coupling168 to couple lid 140 to base 110 in the collapsed configuration.

Turning now to FIGS. 2A-2D, which illustrate an exemplary embodiment ofcooler apparatus 100 with lid 140 open to show an inner chamber 230 ofcooler apparatus 100. Turning specifically now to FIG. 2A, in manyembodiments, cooler apparatus 100 can comprise removable seal 202, asnoted above. Removable seal 202 can, in some embodiments comprise aremovable plastic seal such as but not limited to a plastic membraneseal. In some embodiments, removable seal 202 can comprise a gaspermeable seal. Removable seal 202 can be coupled to collapsible body120. More particularly, removable seal 202 can be coupled to frame 126of collapsible body 120. In some embodiments, removable seal 202 can becoupled to collapsible body 120 with an adhesive, shrink wrapping, andso forth. Removable seal 202 can be configured to be removed fromcollapsible body 120 by a user pealing removable seal 202 fromcollapsible body 120. As illustrated in FIG. 2A, removable seal 202 can,in some embodiments, be transparent or translucent.

Continuing in FIG. 2A, in many embodiments of cooler apparatus 100, lid140 can comprise inner lid chassis 244, as noted above. Inner lidchassis 244 can be substantially rigid in some embodiments. For example,inner lid chassis 244 can be comprised of rigid plastic, metal, carbonfiber, and the like. A substantially rigid inner lid chassis isconfigured such that lid 140 does not collapse and remains stiff and/orstraight at least under its own weight.

In many embodiments of cooler apparatus 100, lid 140 can furthercomprise an inner recess 242. Inner recess 242 can be positioned on aportion of lid 140 facing collapsible body 120 and inner chamber 250. Insome embodiments, inner recess 242 is sized to receive a lid insulation302 (FIG. 3B). Inner recess 242 also can, in some embodiments, befurther sized to receive an access panel 308 (FIG. 3B). In someembodiments, an inner surface of inner recess 242 can compriseinstructions for collapsing cooler apparatus 100, including instructionsfor collapsing collapsible body 120, dividers 130, and/or collapsibleinsulation assembly 210.

Turning now to FIG. 2B, with removable seal 202 removed, inner chamber250 of cooler apparatus 100 can be more clearly visible. In manyembodiments, cooler apparatus 100 can comprise collapsible insulationassembly 210 comprising inner chamber 250 and set of insulated walls212. Each insulated wall of set of insulated walls 212 can comprise apull tab 214. Pull tab 214 can be configured to allow a user to pull theinsulated wall of set of insulated walls 212 to collapse a portion ofcollapsible insulation assembly 210. In some embodiments, each pull tab214 can comprise a different number to indicate a sequential order inwhich a user should collapse the set of walls 212 when collapsingcollapsible insulation assembly 210. In many embodiments, each insulatedwall of set of insulated walls 212 can be insulated with any insulationmaterial known in the art. For example, any insulation materialreferenced herein can comprise a vacuum insulated panels and/or expandedpolyurethane foam.

In many embodiments of cooler apparatus 100, cooler apparatus 100 canfurther comprise one or more dividers 230 configured to removably coupleto one or more insulated walls of set of insulated walls 212 when coolerapparatus 100 is in the expanded configuration. More particularly, eachof dividers 230 can removably couple to an interior surface of one ormore insulated walls of set of insulated walls 212 when cooler apparatusis in the expanded configuration.

In many embodiments of cooler apparatus 100, each of dividers 230 cancomprise a divider hinge 238 positioned between a first divider portion231 and a second divider portion 232. In some embodiments, divider 230can be insulated with any insulation material known in the art. In moreparticular embodiments, first divider portion 231 can comprise a firstinsulated material or section, and second divider portion 232 cancomprise a second insulated material or section separate from the firstinsulated material or section. Divider hinge 238 can comprise any hingeknown in the art. In some embodiments, divider hinge 238 can comprisethe outer fabric or material covering divider 230. Divider hinge 238 isconfigured to allow divider 230 to be movable between (1) a firstconfiguration wherein first divider portion 231 and second dividerportion 232 are substantially planar with one another and (2) a secondconfiguration wherein first divider portion 231 interfaces seconddivider portion 232 (shown in FIG. 3C). In many embodiments divider 230can comprise a divider pull tab 234. Divider pull tab 234 can bepositioned proximate divider hinge 238 and can allow a user to moreeasily remove divider 230 from inner chamber 250. In many embodiments,divider pull tab 234 is positioned on a first side (e.g., top side) ofdivider 230, and divider hinge 238 is positioned on a second side (e.g.,bottom side) of divider 230 opposite the first side of divider 230.

Turning now to FIG. 2C, which illustrates divider 230 as it is removedfrom inner chamber 250. As illustrated in FIG. 2C, divider 230 cancollapse or fold onto itself. More specifically, some embodiments ofdivider 230 can fold such that first divider portion 231 interfacessecond divider portion 232.

As further shown in FIG. 2C, many embodiments of cooler apparatus 100can comprise a plurality of dividers. For example, as a first one ofdivider 230 is shown folded and being removed from inner chamber 250, asecond one of divider 230 is shown coupled to collapsible insulationassembly 210 deeper within inner chamber 250.

Turning now to FIG. 2D, which illustrates an exemplary embodiment ofcooler apparatus 100 as collapsible insulation assembly 210 is beginningto be collapsed. In many embodiments, set of insulated walls 212 ofcollapsible insulation assembly 210 can comprise at least four insulatedwalls. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2D, collapsibleinsulation assembly 210 comprises a first insulated wall 281, a secondinsulated wall 282, a third insulated wall 283, and a fourth insulatedwall 284. As previously noted, each insulated wall (281, 282, 283, and284) can comprise a numbered tab 214 distal to base 110 when coolerapparatus 100 is in the expanded configuration to designate an order inwhich set of insulated walls 212 should be collapsed. For example, inFIG. 2D, first insulated wall 281 includes numbered tab 214 with anumber “1” marked on the numbered tab 214, and is, thus, the firstinsulated wall that should be collapsed. More detail regarding thecollapsing of collapsible insulation assembly 210 in provided inrelation to FIGS. 4A-4C, below.

Turning now to FIGS. 3A-3C, which illustrate a side view of an exemplaryembodiment of cooler apparatus 100 in the expanded configuration, andvarious cross-sectional views of cooler apparatus 100. Specifically,FIG. 3B illustrates a cross-sectional view of cooler apparatus 100 takenalong line A-A of FIG. 3A, with cooler apparatus 100 in the expandedconfiguration.

In many embodiments of cooler apparatus 100, lid 140 can comprise lidinsulation 302. Lid insulation 302 can be positioned within inner recess242 of lid 140. In some embodiments, lid insulation 302 can comprise adry ice packet, an ice packet, or any other cooled or frozen materialpacket. Lid insulation 302 is advantageously positioned at the top ofcooler apparatus 100 because cold air naturally falls or sinks. Thus,the air cooled by lid insulation 302 will sink to cool not only a firstinner chamber 351 proximate lid insulation 302, but also a second innerchamber 352, a third inner chamber 353, and so on, positioned below lidinsulation 302 and first insulation chamber 351. In some embodiments,lid insulation 302 can be held within inner recess 242 by access panel308. Access panel 308 can be detachably coupled to lid 140 by straps,hook and loop fastening material, and/or a pressure fit of access panel308 within inner recess 242.

In many embodiments of cooler apparatus 100, collapsible insulationassembly 210 can comprise a first insulation portion 311 and a secondinsulation portion 312. As an example, second insulation portion 312 cancomprise first insulated wall 281. First insulation portion 311 can bepositioned within base 110 when cooler apparatus 100 is in the expandedconfiguration, as shown in FIG. 3B. Second insulation portion 312 isproximate first insulation portion 311 and can be located above firstinsulation portion 311 when cooler apparatus 100 is in an uprightposition. In many embodiments of cooler apparatus 100, collapsible body120 is positioned around second insulation portion 312 when coolerapparatus 100 is in the expanded configuration, as shown in FIG. 3B.

In many embodiments of cooler apparatus 100, at least one divider 230can divide inner chamber 250 into a plurality of divided inner chamberswhen cooler apparatus 100 is in the expanded configuration, and the atleast one divider 230 is in a first or expanded divider configuration.For example, in the non-limiting embodiment shown in FIG. 3B, coolerapparatus 100 comprises first divider 230 and second divider 230, bothof which are in the first or expanded divider configuration, with firstdivider portion 231 and second divider portion 232 of each of firstdivider 230 and second divider 230 being substantially planar with oneanother. First divider 230 and second divider 230 shown in FIG. 3Bdivide inner chamber 250 into first inner chamber 351, second innerchamber 352, and third inner chamber 353. In use, an upper most innerchamber can be used for the items needing to remain at a lowest generaltemperature, due to proximity of the upper most inner chamber to lidinsulation 302. For example, in the non-limiting embodiment shown inFIG. 3B, first inner chamber 351 can be used for frozen items, secondinner chamber 352 can be used for chilled or refrigerated items, andthird inner chamber 353 can be used for room temperature items. Thus,the frozen items in first inner chamber 351 are positioned closest tothe cold or frozen material in lid insulation 302. As air that is coolednaturally drops, this cooled air can help to cool divider 230 and/orhelp to cool chilled items in second inner chamber 352 without using afan or other mechanism to move the air within cooling apparatus 100.Additionally, frozen items in first inner chamber 351 can help to cooldivider 230 to help keep chilled items in second inner chamber 351chilled.

While the non-limiting embodiment of cooling apparatus 100 shown in FIG.3B includes first divider 230 and second divider 230 dividing innerchamber into three divided inner chambers, other embodiments cancomprise (1) no dividers and only a single inner chamber 250, (2) only asingle divider 230 dividing inner chamber 250 into a first inner chamber351 and a second inner chamber 352, or (3) three or more dividers 230dividing inner chamber 250 into four or more separate inner chambers. Asshall be described in greater detail below in relation to FIGS. 4A-4Cand 5A-5C, some embodiments of collapsible insulation assembly 210 areadapted to allow a user to customize the number of dividers and thenumber of inner chambers within inner chamber 250 depending on thecontents of an order.

Moreover in many embodiments, first inner chamber 351, second innerchamber 352, and third inner chamber 353 can be customized in sizedepending on contents of an order. That is, it may be necessary forfirst inner chamber 351 to be larger than second inner chamber 352 toaccommodate a specific order. A user packing cooler apparatus 100 candetermine at what height to couple first divider 230 and second divider230 horizontally within inner chamber 250 to meet the specialrequirements of a particular order. Moreover, in some embodiments, oneor more dividers can be positioned vertically within inner chamber 250.Dividers positioned vertically within inner chamber 250 can be analternative to horizontally positioned dividers 230 (as shown in FIG.3B), or can be an addition to horizontally positioned dividers 230.

In some embodiments, cooler apparatus 100 can optionally comprise atracking system 390. Tracking system 390 can, in some embodiments,comprise one or more temperature sensors configured to determine,record, and/or transmit a temperature of the inner chamber. Inembodiments comprising first inner chamber 351 and at least second innerchamber 352, tracking system 390 can determine, record, and/or transmit(1) a first temperature in first inner chamber 351, and (2) a secondtemperature in second inner chamber 352.

In some embodiments, tracking system 390 also can comprise a locationtracking device configured to determine, record, and/or transmit alocation of the cooler apparatus. Tracking system 390 also can, in someembodiments, comprise a communication device configured to wirelesslytransmit any temperatures recorded and the location, as determined. Inmany embodiments, the communication device can transmit the temperaturesand/or the location to a shipping company and/or a customer to whom thecooler is being delivered. The temperature sensors, the locationtracking device, and the communication device of tracking system 390 cancomprise any temperature sensors, location tracking devices, and thecommunication devices known in the art.

Continuing in FIG. 3B, in many embodiments of cooler apparatus 100, base110 can comprise base chassis 306. Base chassis 306 can be substantiallyrigid in some embodiments. For example, base chassis 306 can becomprised of rigid plastic, metal, carbon fiber, and the like. Asubstantially rigid base chassis is configured such that base 110 doesnot collapse, remains stiff and/or straight under its own weight, anddoes not deform when cooler apparatus 100 is in the expandedconfiguration and is full of items from a retailer.

Turning now to FIG. 3C, which illustrates a cross-sectional view ofcooler apparatus 100 taken along line A-A of FIG. 3A, but with coolerapparatus 100 in the collapsed configuration. In the collapsedconfiguration, first insulation portion 311 of collapsible insulationassembly 210 can remain positioned within base 110 when cooler apparatus100 is in the collapsed configuration, as shown in FIG. 3C. Moreover,when first divider 230 and second divider 230 are in a second orcollapsed divider configuration, multiple dividers can fit within theportion of inner chamber 250 that is defined by first insulation portion311 of collapsible insulation assembly 210 positioned within base 110.For example, FIG. 3C illustrates first divider 230 and second divider230 in the second or collapsed divider configuration and positionedwithin the portion of inner chamber 250 that is defined by firstinsulation portion 311 of collapsible insulation assembly 210. Asfurther illustrated in FIG. 3C, when in the second or collapsed dividerconfiguration, first divider portion 231 of first divider 230 and seconddivider 230 interfaces second divider portion 232 of first divider 230and second divider 230.

FIG. 3C also illustrates collapsible insulation assembly 210 in thecollapsed configuration. As shall be shown and described in greaterdetail in relation to FIGS. 4A-C, when in the collapsed configuration,each insulated wall of set of insulated walls 212 can be folded intoinner chamber 250 that a portion of each insulated wall is substantiallyhorizontal, instead of vertical as when cooler apparatus 100 andcollapsible insulation assembly 210 are in the expanded configuration.In many embodiments, when each of first insulated wall 281, secondinsulated wall 282, third insulated wall 283, and fourth insulated wall284 are in the collapsed configuration, none of first insulated wall281, second insulated wall 282, third insulated wall 283, and fourthinsulated wall 284 extend above base 110. Accordingly, when in thecollapsed configuration, collapsible body 120 (FIGS. 3B & 3C) is nolonger positioned around second portion 312 (FIG. 3B) of collapsibleinsulation assembly 210. Instead, when in the collapsed configuration,collapsible body 120 extends across cooler apparatus 100 and ispositioned above all of collapsed collapsible insulation assembly 210.

Turning ahead in the drawings to FIGS. 4A-4C, which illustrate anexemplary embodiment of collapsible insulation assembly 210 at variousconfigurations. Referring specifically to FIG. 4A, which illustrates apartial cutout view of an exemplary embodiment of collapsible insulationassembly 210 in the expanded position. In many embodiments, eachinsulated wall 281, 282, 283, and 284 of set of insulated walls 212 cancomprise a first insulated wall portion 491 and a second insulated wallportion 492. Each first insulated wall portion 491 can be contiguousand/or integral with first insulation portion 311 of collapsibleinsulation assembly 210. First insulated wall portion 491 and secondinsulated wall portion 492 of each insulated wall of set of insulatedwalls 212 can be substantially planar with one another when coolerapparatus 100 is in the expanded configuration, as shown in FIG. 4A.

In many embodiments of collapsible insulation assembly 210, firstinsulated wall portion 491 and second insulated wall portion 492 of eachinsulated wall 281, 282, 283, and 284 can be separated from each otheror otherwise divided by an insulation hinge. The insulation hinge ofeach insulated wall 281, 282, 283, and 284, however, can be positioneddifferently relative to the other insulation hinges on the set of walls212. For example, the insulation hinge of each insulated wall 281, 282,283, and 284 of set of insulated walls 212 can be offset from theinsulation hinge of an adjacent insulated wall of set of insulated walls212. Accordingly, first insulated wall portion 491 of each insulatedwall 281, 282, 283, and 284 of set of insulated walls 212 is sizeddifferently and/or has different dimensions than first insulated wallportion 491 of any other insulated wall 281, 282, 283, and 284 of set ofinsulated walls 212. Similarly, second insulated wall portion 492 ofeach insulated wall 281, 282, 283, and 284 of set of insulated walls 212is sized differently and/or has different dimensions than secondinsulated wall portion 492 of any other insulated wall 281, 282, 283,and 284 of set of insulated walls 212.

FIG. 4A further illustrates the offset insulations hinges of collapsibleinsulation assembly 210. More particularly, first insulated wall 281 cancomprise a first insulation hinge 481, second insulated wall 282 cancomprise a second insulation hinge 482, third insulated wall 283 cancomprise a third insulation hinge 483, and fourth insulated wall 284 cancomprise a fourth insulation hinge 484. In the non-limiting embodimentshown in FIG. 4A, first insulation hinge 481 is positioned the lowest ofany insulation hinges, or closest to a bottom 495 of collapsibleinsulation assembly 210. Second insulation hinge 482 can be further frombottom 495 of collapsible insulation assembly 210 than first insulationhinge 481, but closer to bottom 495 of collapsible insulation assembly210 than third insulation hinge 483. Third insulation hinge 483 can befurther from bottom 495 of collapsible insulation assembly 210 thansecond insulation hinge 482, but closer to bottom 495 of collapsibleinsulation assembly 210 than fourth insulation hinge 484. Fourthinsulation hinge 484 can be further from bottom 495 than thirdinsulation hinge 483. This staggered or offset configuration ofinsulation hinges of collapsible insulation assembly 210 allows secondinsulated wall portions 491 of each insulated wall 281, 282, 283, and284 to be positioned at different levels horizontally within coolerapparatus 100 when each insulated wall 281, 282, 283, and 284 is foldedfrom the expanded configuration to the collapsed configuration (shown inFIGS. 3C and 4C).

In some embodiments, each insulated wall 281, 282, 283, and 284 of setof insulated wall 212 can be insulated with any insulation materialknown in the art. In more particular embodiments of each insulated wall281, 282, 283, and 284 of set of insulated walls 212, first insulatedwall portion 491 can comprise a first insulated material or section, andsecond insulated wall portion 492 can comprise a second insulatedmaterial or section separate from the first insulated material orsection. In other embodiments, first insulated wall portion 491 andsecond insulated wall portion 492 insulated wall 281, 282, 283, and 284can comprise the same insulated material. Insulation hinges 481, 482,483, and 484 can comprise any hinge known in the art. In someembodiments, insulation hinges 481, 482, 483, and 484 can comprise theouter fabric or material covering set of insulated walls 212.

Turning to FIG. 4B, which illustrates first insulated wall 481 folded tothe collapsed configuration, second insulated wall 482 being folded fromthe expanded configuration to the collapsed configuration, and thirdinsulated wall 483 and fourth insulated wall 484 in the expandedconfiguration. In some embodiments, second insulated wall portion 492 offirst insulated wall 481 can be sized such that when first insulatedwall 481 is folded to the collapsed position, a terminating end 496(FIG. 4A) of second insulated wall portion 492 of first insulated wall481 abuts first portion 491 of third insulated wall 283 (shown in FIG.3B). In some embodiments, terminating end 496 of first insulated wall481 can be removably coupled to opposing third insulated wall 483 whenin the collapsed configuration. When removably coupled to opposing thirdinsulated wall 283 in the collapsed configuration, second insulated wallportion 492 of first insulated wall 481 can support second insulatedwall portion 492 of each of second insulated wall 282, third insulatedwall 283, and fourth insulated wall 284. When in a collapsed position,folded dividers and/or lid insulation 302 (such as a dry icecompartment) can be positioned in the base and support the insulatedwalls in the collapsed configuration.

Moreover, in many embodiments of collapsible insulation assembly 210,widths of second insulated wall portions 492 of set of insulated walls212 also can vary. For example second insulated wall portion 492 offirst insulated wall 281 can be more narrow than second insulatedportions 492 of second insulated wall 282, third insulated wall 283, andfourth insulated wall 284 to allow second insulated wall portion 492 offirst insulated wall 281 to fit between second insulated wall 282 andthird insulated wall 283 when second insulated wall portion 492 of firstinsulated wall 281 is moved from the expanded configuration to thecollapsed configuration. In some embodiments, second insulated wallportion 492 of second insulated wall 282 and third insulated wall 283can be substantially equal in width but less than a width of secondinsulated wall portion 492 of fourth insulated wall 284. In someembodiments, second insulated wall portion 492 of fourth insulated wall484 can be greater in width than second insulated wall portion 492 offirst insulated wall 281, second insulated wall 282, and third insulatedwall 283.

Turning to FIG. 4C, which illustrates each of set of walls 212 folded tothe collapsed configuration. When each of set of walls 212 are folded tothe collapsed configuration, second insulated wall portions 492 of setof walls 212 can be substantially horizontal relative to horizontalbottom 495, while first insulated wall portions 491 remain substantiallyvertical relative to horizontal bottom 495.

Returning to FIGS. 4A and 4B, in many embodiments of collapsibleinsulation assembly 210, an interior wall of one or more insulated wallsof set of insulated walls 212 can comprise a plurality of holes 450.Plurality of holes 450 can be positioned at a plurality of distancesrelative to bottom 495 of collapsible insulation assembly 210. In someembodiments, each insulated wall of set of walls 212 comprises twocolumns of plurality of holes 450. In other embodiments, only twoopposing insulated walls of set of walls 212 comprise two columns ofplurality of holes 450. Plurality of holes 450 allow dividers 230 to becoupled to one or more insulated walls of set of insulated walls 212 atcustomized or user-determined heights relative to bottom 495.

Turning now to FIG. 5A which illustrates divider 230 being coupled to aninsulated wall of set of insulated walls 212. In many embodiments,divider 230 can be coupled to one or more insulated walls of set ofinsulated walls 212 with a coupling 510. In some embodiments, firstdivider portion 231 comprises one or more couplings 510, and seconddivider portion 232 comprises one or more couplings 510. Couplings 510can be configured to removably couple divider 230 to one or moreinsulated walls of set of insulated walls 212 using at least a portionof plurality of holes 450. In many embodiments, divider hinge 238 ispositioned downward or at a bottom side of divider 230 when couplingdivider 230 to set of insulated walls 212 to allow central ends of firstdivider portion 231 and second divider portion 232 to abut one another(shown in FIG. 3B) and support items place on divider 230.

Turning now to FIGS. 5B and 5C, which illustrate a cross-sectional viewof a non-limiting embodiment of coupling 510 in greater detail. In someembodiments, coupling 510 can comprise a biased pin 514. Biased pin 514can be biased, in many embodiments, by a spring housed at leastpartially within coupling 510. The spring housed at least partiallywithin coupling 510 can bias biased pin 514 outward of the housing ofcoupling 510. Referring specifically to FIG. 5B, when divider 230contacts an interior surface 512 of an insulated wall of set ofinsulated walls 212, biased pin 514 is pushed further into a housing ofcoupling 510. Referring specifically to FIG. 5C, when biased pin 514meets a hole of plurality of holes 450, the spring pushes biased pin 514into hole 450 to engage biased pin 514 with the hole and removablycouple divider 230 to the insulated wall of set of insulated walls 212.Divider 230 can be removed or uncoupled from the insulated wall of setof insulated walls 212 by pulling tab 234 (shown in FIG. 5A) upward.

Turning ahead in the drawings to FIG. 6, which illustrates an explodedview of an exemplary embodiment of cooler apparatus 100. Various partsof cooler apparatus 100 shown in the exploded view of FIG. 6 can beaccording any other embodiments described in greater detail above. Inmany embodiments, cooler apparatus 100 is configured in modular fashionsuch that individual parts can be serviced, fixed, and/or replaced toextend the life of cooler apparatus 100.

Turning ahead in the drawings to FIGS. 7A and 7B which illustrate topviews of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of cooler apparatus 100.In some embodiments, cooler apparatus 100 can comprise label holder 150that is hingedly, pivotally, slidably, or otherwise movably coupled tolid 140. Label holder 150 can be movable between a first positioncovering a first portion of lid 140 (shown in FIG. 7A) and a secondposition covering a second portion of lid 140 (shown in FIG. 7B). Whenin the first position, label holder 150 can leave a first message 701(FIG. 7A) exposed on lid 140. For example, first message 701 (FIG. 7A)can indicate cooler apparatus 100 contains items from an order and/or isready for a customer to pick up cooler apparatus 100. When in the secondposition, label holder can leave a second message 702 (FIG. 7B) exposedon lid 140. For example, second message 702 (FIG. 7B) can indicatecooler apparatus 100 has been emptied by the customer is ready to bepicked up for return to a retailer or distributor.

Label holder 150 can be configured to hold a label comprising shippinginformation. For example, (1) when in the first position, label holder150 can display delivery information for delivery to the customer, and(2) when in the second position, label holder 150 can display deliveryinformation for return delivery of cooler apparatus to the distributoror retailer. The delivery information can include an address, phonenumber, and so on.

Turning now to FIG. 8A, which illustrates collapsible insulationassembly 210 being remove from an exemplary embodiment of coolerapparatus 100. In many embodiments, collapsible insulation assembly 210can be unfastened and/or otherwise removed from cooler apparatus 100 forcleaning of collapsible insulation assembly 210. Turning now to FIG. 8B,which illustrates multiple ones of collapsible insulation assembly 210being washed in a washer 800. In many embodiments, collapsibleinsulation assembly 210 can advantageously be removed from coolerapparatus 100 and washed upside down in a washer 800 to cleancollapsible insulation assembly 210.

Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 9 illustrates a flow chart for amethod 900, according to an embodiment. Method 900 is merely exemplaryand is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. Method 900 canbe employed in many different embodiments or examples not specificallydepicted or described herein. In some embodiments, the activities ofmethod 900 can be performed in the order presented. In otherembodiments, the activities of method 900 can be performed in anysuitable order. In still other embodiments, one or more of theactivities of method 900 can be combined or skipped. In manyembodiments, elements of cooler apparatus 100 (FIGS. 1-8) can besuitable for use in method 900 and/or one or more of the activities ofmethod 900.

In many embodiments, method 900 can comprise an activity 902 ofproviding base 110. Base 110 can comprise any embodiments of base 110described above. Method 900 can further comprise an activity 904 ofproviding collapsible insulation assembly 210. Collapsible insulationassembly 210 can comprise any embodiments of collapsible insulationassembly 210 described above.

Method 900 can further comprise an activity 906 of providing acollapsible body covering. Collapsible body covering can comprise anyembodiments of collapsible body 120 described above. In more particularembodiments, activity 906 can comprise providing the collapsible bodycovering configured to couple to base 110 and configured to bepositioned around second insulation portion 312 of collapsibleinsulation assembly 210 when cooler apparatus 100 is in the expandedconfiguration.

Method 900 can further comprise an activity 908 of coupling acollapsible body frame to the collapsible body covering. The collapsiblebody frame can comprise any embodiments of frame 126 described above.Method 900 can further comprise an activity 910 of providing at leastone divider. The at least one divider can comprise any embodiments ofdivider 230 described above. Method 900 can further comprise an activity912 of providing lid 140. Lid 140 can comprise any embodiments of lid140 described above.

Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 10 illustrates a flow chart for amethod 1000 of assembling cooler apparatus 100, according to anembodiment. Method 1000 is merely exemplary and is not limited to theembodiments presented herein. Method 1000 can be employed in manydifferent embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or describedherein. In some embodiments, the activities of method 1000 can beperformed in the order presented. In other embodiments, the activitiesof method 1000 can be performed in any suitable order. In still otherembodiments, one or more of the activities of method 1000 can becombined or skipped. In many embodiments, elements of cooler apparatus100 (FIGS. 1-8) can be suitable for use in method 1000 and/or one ormore of the activities of method 1000.

In many embodiments, method 1000 can comprise an activity 1005 ofinserting a first insulation portion of a collapsible insulationassembly into a base. The first insulation portion can comprise anyembodiments of first insulation portion 311 (FIGS. 3A-3C) describedabove, the collapsible insulation assembly can comprise any embodimentsof collapsible insulation assembly 210 (FIGS. 2A-2D) described above,and the base can comprise any embodiments of base 110 (FIGS. 1A-1C)described above.

In many embodiments, method 1000 can further comprise an activity 1010of a coupling collapsible body to the base. The collapsible body cancomprise any embodiments of collapsible body 110 (FIGS. 1A-1C) describedabove.

In many embodiments, method 1000 can further comprise an activity 1015of removably coupling at least one divider to one or more insulatedwalls of a set of insulated walls of the collapsible insulation assemblywhen cooler apparatus 100 is in the expanded configuration. The at leastone divider can comprise any embodiments of divider 230 (FIGS. 2A-2D)described above, and the one or more insulated walls can comprise anyembodiments of set of insulated walls 212 (FIGS. 2A-2D) described above.

In many embodiments, method 1000 can further comprise an activity 1020of coupling a lid to the collapsible body opposite the base. The lid cancomprise any embodiments of lid 140 described above.

Although systems and methods for a reusable and collapsible shippingcooler have been described with reference to specific embodiments, itwill be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes maybe made without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure.Accordingly, the disclosure of embodiments is intended to beillustrative of the scope of the disclosure and is not intended to belimiting. It is intended that the scope of the disclosure shall belimited only to the extent required by the appended claims. For example,to one of ordinary skill in the art, it will be readily apparent thatany element of FIGS. 1-10 may be modified, and that the foregoingdiscussion of certain of these embodiments does not necessarilyrepresent a complete description of all possible embodiments. Forexample, one or more of the procedures, processes, or activities ofFIGS. 9 and 10 may include different procedures, processes, and/oractivities and be performed by many different devices and/or in manydifferent orders.

All elements claimed in any particular claim are essential to theembodiment claimed in that particular claim. Consequently, replacementof one or more claimed elements constitutes reconstruction and notrepair. Additionally, benefits, other advantages, and solutions toproblems have been described with regard to specific embodiments. Thebenefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element or elementsthat may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or becomemore pronounced, however, are not to be construed as critical, required,or essential features or elements of any or all of the claims, unlesssuch benefits, advantages, solutions, or elements are stated in suchclaim.

Moreover, embodiments and limitations disclosed herein are not dedicatedto the public under the doctrine of dedication if the embodiments and/orlimitations: (1) are not expressly claimed in the claims; and (2) are orare potentially equivalents of express elements and/or limitations inthe claims under the doctrine of equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. A cooler apparatus, comprising: a base; acollapsible insulation assembly comprising (1) a first insulationportion positioned within the base when the cooler apparatus is in anexpanded configuration and a collapsed configuration, (2) a secondinsulation portion proximate the first insulation portion, (3) a set ofinsulated walls that are at least partially movable, and (4) an innerchamber within the set of insulated walls; a collapsible body coupled tothe base and configured to be positioned around the second insulationportion of the collapsible insulation assembly when the cooler apparatusis in the expanded configuration; at least one divider configured toremovably couple to one or more insulated walls of the set of insulatedwalls of the collapsible insulation assembly when the cooler apparatusis in the expanded configuration, the at least one divider dividing theinner chamber of the collapsible insulation assembly into at least afirst inner chamber and a second inner chamber when removably coupled tothe one or more insulated walls of the set of insulated walls when thecooler apparatus is in the expanded configuration; and a lid coupled tothe collapsible body opposite the base when the cooler apparatus is inthe expanded configuration and the collapsed configuration.
 2. Thecooler apparatus of claim 1, wherein: each insulated wall of the set ofinsulated walls comprise a first insulated wall portion and a secondinsulated wall portion separated by an insulation hinge; the firstinsulated wall portion and the second insulated wall portion of eachinsulated wall of the set of insulated walls are substantially planarwith one another when the cooler apparatus is in the expandedconfiguration; the second insulated wall portion of each insulated wallof the set of insulated walls is configured to be folded into the innerchamber when the cooler apparatus is in the collapsed configuration; andthe first insulated wall portion of each insulated wall of the set ofinsulated walls is sized differently than the first insulated wallportion of any other insulated wall of the set insulated walls such thatthe insulation hinge of each insulated wall of the set of insulatedwalls is offset from the insulation hinge of an adjacent insulated wallof the set of insulated walls.
 3. The cooler apparatus of claim 1,wherein the collapsible body comprises: a set of body walls, each bodywall of the set of body walls (1) extending from a first end of thecollapsible body to a second end of the collapsible body, and (2)comprising a first body portion and a second body portion, wherein thefirst body portion and the second body portion of each body wall of theset of body walls (a) are substantially planar with one another when thecooler apparatus is in the expanded configuration, and (b) interface oneanother on two first opposing body walls of the set of body walls whenthe cooler apparatus is in the collapsed configuration; a central hingeon each body wall of the set of body walls positioned between the firstbody portion and the second body portion; and one or more angled hingeson two second opposing body walls of the set of body walls, each angledhinge of the one or more angled hinges on each second opposing body wallof the two second opposing body walls (1) extending from one of thefirst body end or the second body end to the central hinge of the secondopposing body wall and (2) being not parallel to the central hinge ofthe second opposing body wall when the cooler apparatus is in theexpanded configuration.
 4. The cooler apparatus of claim 1, wherein: theat least one divider comprises a divider hinge positioned between afirst divider portion and a second divider portion; the at least onedivider is movable between a first divider configuration and a seconddivider configuration; when the cooler apparatus is in the expandedconfiguration and when the at least one divider is removably coupled tothe one or more insulated walls of the set of insulated walls, (1) theat least one divider is in the first divider configuration, and (2) thefirst divider portion and the second divider portion are substantiallyplanar with one another; and when the cooler apparatus is in thecollapsed configuration, (1) the at least one divider is in the seconddivider configuration, (2) the at least one divider fits within theinner chamber and within the base, and (3) the first divider portioninterfaces the second divider portion when the at least one divider isin the second divider configuration.
 5. The cooler apparatus of claim 1,wherein: the one or more insulated walls of the set of insulated wallscomprise a plurality of holes positioned at a plurality of distancesfrom a bottom of the collapsible insulation assembly; and the at leastone divider comprises at least one biased pin, wherein the at least onebiased pin is configured to engage with at least one hole of theplurality of holes on the one or more insulated walls of the set ofinsulated walls to (1) removably couple the at least one divider to theone or more insulated walls of the set of insulated walls when thecooler apparatus is in the expanded configuration and (2) divide theinner chamber of the collapsible insulation assembly into the at leastthe first inner chamber and the second inner chamber when the coolerapparatus is in the expanded configuration.
 6. The cooler apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the at least one divider comprises: at least twoinsulated dividers configured to removably couple to the one or moreinsulated walls of the set of insulated walls of the collapsibleinsulation assembly when the cooler apparatus is in the expandedconfiguration, the at least two insulated dividers dividing the innerchamber of the collapsible insulation assembly into the first innerchamber, the second inner chamber, and a third inner chamber when the atleast two insulated dividers are removably coupled to the one or moreinsulated walls of the set of insulated walls and when the coolerapparatus is in the expanded configuration.
 7. The cooler apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein: the collapsible body further comprises a frame,wherein the lid is coupled to the frame of the collapsible body; thecooler apparatus further comprises: a removable plastic seal coupled tothe frame, the removable plastic seal separating the lid from the innerchamber of the collapsible insulation assembly; a label holder hingedlycoupled to an outer surface of the lid and movable between a firstposition covering a first portion of the lid and a second positioncovering a second portion of the lid; and a tracking system, thetracking system comprising: (1) one or more temperature sensorsconfigured to determine and record a first temperature in the firstinner chamber and a second temperature in the second inner chamber, (2)a location tracking device configured to determine and record a locationof the cooler apparatus, and (3) a communication device configured towirelessly transmit the first temperature, the second temperature, andthe location; each insulated wall of the set of insulated wallscomprises a numbered tab distal to the base when the cooler apparatus isin the expanded configuration; the at least one divider comprises (1) adivider hinge positioned between a first divider portion and a seconddivider portion, and (2) a pull tab positioned proximate the dividerhinge; the base is substantially rigid; and the lid is substantiallyrigid.
 8. A method, comprising: providing a base; providing acollapsible insulation assembly comprising (1) a first insulationportion positioned within the base when the cooler apparatus is in anexpanded configuration and a collapsed configuration, (2) a secondinsulation portion proximate the first insulation portion, (3) a set ofinsulated walls that are at least partially movable, and (4) an innerchamber within the set of insulated walls; providing a collapsible bodycovering configured to couple to the base and configured to bepositioned around a second insulation portion of the collapsibleinsulation assembly when the cooler apparatus is in the expandedconfiguration; coupling a collapsible body frame to the collapsible bodycovering; providing at least one divider configured to removably coupleto one or more insulated walls of the set of insulated walls of thecollapsible insulation assembly when the cooler apparatus is in theexpanded configuration, the at least one divider dividing the innerchamber of the collapsible insulation assembly into at least a firstinner chamber and a second inner chamber when removably coupled to theone or more insulated walls of the set of insulated walls when thecooler apparatus is in the expanded configuration; and providing a lidconfigured to couple to the collapsible body frame opposite the basewhen the cooler apparatus is in both the expanded configuration and thecollapsed configuration.
 9. The method of claim 8, wherein: thecollapsible insulation assembly comprises a set of insulated walls, eachinsulated wall of the set of insulated walls comprising a firstinsulated wall portion and a second insulated wall portion separated byan insulation hinge; the first insulated wall portion and the secondinsulated wall portion of each insulated wall of the set of insulatedwalls are substantially planar with one another when the coolerapparatus is in the expanded configuration; the second insulated wallportion of each insulated wall of the set of insulated walls isconfigured to fold inwardly relative to the first insulated wall portionwhen the cooler apparatus is in the collapsed configuration; and thefirst insulated wall portion of each insulated wall of the set ofinsulated walls is sized differently than the first insulated wallportion of any other insulated wall of the set insulated walls such thatthe insulation hinge of each insulated wall of the set of insulatedwalls is offset from the insulation hinge of an adjacent insulated wallof the set of insulated walls.
 10. The method of claim 8, wherein thecollapsible body covering comprises: a set of body walls, each body wallof the set of body walls (1) extending from a first end of thecollapsible body covering to a second end of the collapsible bodycovering, and (2) comprising a first body portion and a second bodyportion, wherein the first body portion and the second body portion ofeach body wall of the set of body walls (a) are substantially planarwith one another when the cooler apparatus is in the expandedconfiguration, and (b) interface one another on two first opposing bodywalls of the set of body walls when the cooler apparatus is in thecollapsed configuration; a central hinge on each body wall of the set ofbody walls positioned between first body portion and the second bodyportion; and one or more angled hinges on two second opposing body wallsof the set of body walls, each angled hinge of the one or more angledhinges on each second opposing body wall of the two second opposing bodywalls (1) extending from one of the first body end or the second bodyend to the central hinge of the second opposing body wall and (2) beingnot parallel to the central hinge of the second opposing body wall whenthe cooler apparatus is in the expanded configuration.
 11. The method ofclaim 8, wherein: the at least one divider comprises a divider hingepositioned between a first divider portion and a second divider portion;the at least one divider is movable between a first dividerconfiguration and a second divider configuration; when the coolerapparatus is in the expanded configuration and when the at least onedivider is removably coupled to the one or more insulated walls of theset of insulated walls, (1) the at least one divider is in the firstdivider configuration, and (2) the first divider portion and the seconddivider portion are substantially planar with one another; and when thecooler apparatus is in the collapsed configuration, (1) the at least onedivider is in the second divider configuration, (2) the at least onedivider fits within the inner chamber and within the base, and (3) thefirst divider portion interfaces the second divider portion when the atleast one divider is in the second divider configuration.
 12. The methodof claim 8, wherein: the one or more insulated walls of the set ofinsulated walls comprise a plurality of holes positioned at a pluralityof distances from a bottom of the collapsible insulation assembly; andthe at least one divider comprises at least one biased pin, wherein theat least one biased pin is configured to engage with at least one holeof the plurality of holes on the one or more insulated walls of the setof insulated walls to (1) removably couple the at least one divider tothe one or more insulated walls of the set of insulated walls when thecooler apparatus is in the expanded configuration and (2) divide theinner chamber of the collapsible insulation assembly into the at leastthe first inner chamber and the second inner chamber when the coolerapparatus is in the expanded configuration.
 13. The method of claim 8,wherein the at least one divider comprises: at least two insulateddividers configured to removably couple to the one or more insulatedwalls of the set of insulated walls of the collapsible insulationassembly when the cooler apparatus is in the expanded configuration, theat least two insulated dividers dividing the inner chamber of thecollapsible insulation assembly into the first inner chamber, the secondinner chamber, and a third inner chamber when the at least two insulateddividers are removably coupled to the one or more insulated walls of theset of insulated walls and when the cooler apparatus is in the expandedconfiguration.
 14. The method of claim 8, wherein: the method furthercomprises: providing a removable plastic seal configured to couple tothe collapsible body frame, the removable plastic seal separating thelid from the inner chamber of the collapsible insulation assembly;providing a label holder configured to hingedly couple to an outersurface of the lid and movable between a first position covering a firstportion of the lid and a second position covering a second portion ofthe lid; and providing a tracking system, the tracking systemcomprising: (1) one or more temperature sensors configured to determineand record a first temperature in the first inner chamber and a secondtemperature in the second inner chamber, (2) a location tracking deviceconfigured to determine and record a location of the cooler apparatus,and (3) a communication device configured to wirelessly transmit thefirst temperature, the second temperature, and the location; eachinsulated wall of the set of insulated walls comprises a numbered tabdistal to the base when the cooler apparatus is in the expandedconfiguration; the at least one divider comprises (1) a divider hingepositioned between a first divider portion and a second divider portion,and (2) a pull tab positioned proximate the divider hinge; the base issubstantially rigid; and the lid is substantially rigid.
 15. A method ofassembling a cooler apparatus, comprising: inserting a first insulationportion of a collapsible insulation assembly into a base, wherein (1)the first insulation portion is positioned within the base when thecooler apparatus is in an expanded configuration and a collapsedconfiguration, and (2) the collapsible insulation assembly comprises asecond insulation portion proximate the first insulation portion, a setof insulated walls that are at least partially movable, and an innerchamber within the set of insulate walls; coupling a collapsible bodytoward the base, the collapsible body configured to be positioned arounda second insulation portion of the collapsible insulation assembly whenthe cooler apparatus is in the expanded configuration; removablycoupling at least one divider to one or more insulated walls of the setof insulated walls of the collapsible insulation assembly when thecooler apparatus is in the expanded configuration, the at least onedivider dividing the inner chamber of the collapsible insulationassembly into at least a first inner chamber and a second inner chamberwhen removably coupled to the one or more insulated walls of the set ofinsulated walls when the cooler apparatus is in the expandedconfiguration; and coupling a lid to the collapsible body opposite thebase.
 16. The method of claim 15, wherein: the collapsible insulationassembly comprises a set of insulated walls, each insulated wall of theset of insulated walls comprising a first insulated wall portion and asecond insulated wall portion separated by an insulation hinge; thefirst insulated wall portion and the second insulated wall portion ofeach insulated wall of the set of insulated walls are substantiallyplanar with one another when the cooler apparatus is in the expandedconfiguration; the second insulated wall portion of each insulated wallof the set of insulated walls is configured to fold inwardly relative tothe first insulated wall portion when the cooler apparatus istransitioned from the expanded position to the collapsed configuration;and the first insulated wall portion of each insulated wall of the setof insulated walls is sized differently than the first insulated wallportion of any other insulated wall of the set insulated walls such thatthe insulation hinge of each insulated wall of the set of insulatedwalls is offset from the insulation hinge of an adjacent insulated wallof the set of insulated walls.
 17. The method of claim 15, wherein thecollapsible body comprises: a set of body walls, each body wall of theset of body walls (1) extending from a first end of the collapsible bodyto a second end of the collapsible body, and (2) comprising a first bodyportion and a second body portion, wherein the first body portion andthe second body portion of each body wall of the set of body walls (a)are substantially planar with one another when the cooler apparatus isin the expanded configuration, and (b) interface one another on twofirst opposing body walls of the set of body walls when the coolerapparatus is in the collapsed configuration; a central hinge on eachbody wall of the set of body walls positioned between first body portionand the second body portion; and one or more angled hinges on two secondopposing body walls of the set of body walls, each angled hinge of theone or more angled hinges on each second opposing body wall of the twosecond opposing body walls (1) extending from one of the first body endor the second body end to the central hinge of the second opposing bodywall and (2) being not parallel to the central hinge of the secondopposing body wall when the cooler apparatus is in the expandedconfiguration.
 18. The method of claim 15, wherein: the at least onedivider comprises a divider hinge positioned between a first dividerportion and a second divider portion; the at least one divider ismovable between a first divider configuration and a second dividerconfiguration; when the cooler apparatus is in the expandedconfiguration and when the at least one divider is removably coupled tothe one or more insulated walls of the set of insulated walls, (1) theat least one divider is in the first divider configuration, and (2) thefirst divider portion and the second divider portion are substantiallyplanar with one another; and when the cooler apparatus is transitionedfrom the expanded position to the collapsed configuration, (1) the atleast one divider is in the second divider configuration, (2) the atleast one divider fits within the inner chamber and within the base, and(3) the first divider portion interfaces the second divider portion whenthe at least one divider is in the second divider configuration.
 19. Themethod of claim 15, wherein: the one or more insulated walls of the setof insulated walls comprise a plurality of holes positioned at aplurality of distances from a bottom of the collapsible insulationassembly; and the at least one divider comprises at least one insulateddivider comprising at least one biased pin, wherein the at least onebiased pin is configured to engage with at least one hole of theplurality of holes on the one or more insulated walls of the set ofinsulated walls to (1) removably couple the at least one divider to theone or more insulated walls of the set of insulated walls when thecooler apparatus is in the expanded configuration and (2) divide theinner chamber of the collapsible insulation assembly into the at leastthe first inner chamber and the second inner chamber when the coolerapparatus is in the expanded configuration.
 20. The method of claim 15,wherein: the method further comprises: coupling a removable plastic sealcoupled to a frame of the collapsible body, the removable plastic sealseparating the lid from the inner chamber of the collapsible insulationassembly; hingedly coupling a label holder to an outer surface of thelid and movable between a first position covering a first portion of thelid and a second position covering a second portion of the lid; andcoupling a tracking system to the cooler apparatus, the tracking systemcomprising: (1) one or more temperature sensors configured to determineand record a first temperature in the first inner chamber and a secondtemperature in the second inner chamber, (2) a location tracking deviceconfigured to determine and record a location of the cooler apparatus,and (3) a communication device configured to wirelessly transmit thefirst temperature, the second temperature, and the location; eachinsulated wall of the set of insulated walls comprises a numbered tabdistal to the base when the cooler apparatus is in the expandedconfiguration; the at least one divider comprises (1) a divider hingepositioned between a first divider portion and a second divider portion,and (2) a pull tab positioned proximate the divider hinge; the base issubstantially rigid; and the lid is substantially rigid.